Exploring the Path of Scientific Discovery: An Interview with Dr. Gülten Tuncel

In this exclusive interview, Dr. Gülten Tuncel, a distinguished researcher at the DESAM Research Institute, shares her inspiring journey in the field of molecular genetics. From her academic roots in Northern Cyprus to her groundbreaking contributions to diagnostic research, Dr. Tuncel discusses the influences that shaped her career, the lessons learned through collaboration, and her vision for the future of science. Her dedication to innovation and her commitment to creating inclusive opportunities in the scientific community highlight the transformative power of research.

“The achievements and perseverance of women in science have been incredibly motivating.”

Is there someone who inspires you in the research world? How has this person’s journey or approach influenced you?

In the research world, I draw a lot of inspiration from the countless women who have shaped and continue to shape scientific fields, especially in areas like genetics. Being a woman in science can come with its unique challenges, but seeing the achievements and perseverance of other women in the field has been incredibly motivating. These women, through their groundbreaking work and innovative contributions, have shown that science thrives when diverse perspectives are brought to the table. What particularly inspires me is the collective impact these women have had in advancing knowledge and creating more inclusive spaces for future generations of researchers. Their journeys, marked by determination, resilience, and a commitment to discovery, have reinforced my belief in the importance of making meaningful contributions to the scientific community. I’m passionate about following in those footsteps—not just to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge but also to contribute to an environment where all voices, especially those historically underrepresented, are valued and empowered. Being part of this ongoing movement gives me a sense of purpose and encourages me to continue my research with the goal of not only advancing science but also helping to create a more equitable and diverse scientific community for those who will follow.

“Collaboration enhances creativity and allows us to tackle complex problems more effectively.”

What is the most important thing you have learned while collaborating with your team members or mentors?

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned while collaborating with my team members and mentors is the value of working together. Collaboration not only creates a supportive environment but also enhances creativity and problem-solving. I’ve come to realize that the impact of our work is significantly strengthened when we approach challenges from a multidisciplinary perspective. Each team member brings a unique skill set and knowledge base, and by integrating these diverse viewpoints, we can tackle complex problems more effectively. Working alongside experienced mentors has also reinforced the idea that collective effort often leads to breakthroughs that wouldn’t be possible individually. This collaborative mindset has been crucial in advancing our research and amplifying its relevance and reach.

Can you share a method you’ve developed to manage time efficiently and handle stress in your research career?

In my research career, I’ve developed a few methods to manage time efficiently and handle stress. One of the key strategies is making realistic to-do lists, which help me stay organized and focused on the most pressing tasks without feeling overwhelmed. I also make it a point to save time for hobbies and activities that allow me to refresh my mind and recharge, as I’ve found that taking breaks is essential for maintaining long-term productivity and well-being. Additionally, I prioritize teamwork, recognizing that collaborating with others not only lightens the workload but also provides valuable perspectives that enhance problem-solving and innovation. By balancing these practices, I’m able to stay on track with my research while managing stress and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

 

How do you aim to develop an innovative perspective by going beyond traditional approaches in your research field?

To develop an innovative perspective in the field of molecular genetics, I focus on actively learning new methodologies and staying at the forefront of emerging techniques. This involves consistently keeping up with the current literature to ensure that my research incorporates the latest advancements and discoveries. Additionally, I attend workshops and specialized training sessions to acquire hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, which allows me to apply novel approaches in my own work. Networking at scientific congresses has also been invaluable, as it provides opportunities to exchange ideas with experts in the field, learn about different research strategies, and identify potential collaborations. By combining continuous learning with active engagement in the scientific community, I aim to challenge traditional approaches and contribute to the development of more innovative, interdisciplinary solutions in molecular genetics.

“Our goal is to develop advanced diagnostic tools to transform healthcare and enable personalized treatment strategies.”

 

In the next 5 years, what kind of impact do you hope your research will have on the scientific community or society?

In DESAM Kit Production Laboratory, we are focused on developing real-time PCR kits designed for the rapid and accurate detection of pathogenic microorganisms with the valuable insights and experiences we gained during the Covid-19 pandemic. These kits aim to provide reliable results, which are essential for timely treatment and containment of infectious diseases. In parallel, we are working on next-generation sequencing (NGS) kits for the detection of rare metabolic disorders. By harnessing the power of NGS technology, our goal is to improve the diagnosis and understanding of these complex conditions, which often remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to their rarity and genetic complexity. Our work is driven by the belief that advanced, accessible diagnostic tools are key to transforming healthcare and enabling better, more personalized treatment strategies in the future by contributing to the current knowledge.

Dr. Gülten Tuncel Biography

Gülten Tuncel was born and raised in Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus. She graduated with honors from 19 Mayıs Türk Maarif College in 2009 and went on to complete her undergraduate studies in Genetics (BSc) at The University of Manchester, graduating in 2013. In 2016, she earned her Master’s degree from the Faculty of Biological Sciences at Middle East Technical University. In 2021, Gülten completed her PhD in Molecular Medicine at Near East University, with a thesis titled “New Candidate Gene for Joubert Syndrome: CC2D1A.” Since then, she has been a full-time member of the DESAM Research Institute, where she also played a key role in establishing the DESAM Kit Production Laboratory in 2021. She continues to work at the laboratory, where, alongside her colleagues, she has contributed to the development of over ten diagnostic PCR kits and participated in numerous international research projects. Gülten’s research interests include molecular diagnostic techniques, genome sequencing, and rare genetic disorders. She has authored over 40 papers in prestigious international journals and has actively participated in several national and international conferences. In recognition of her outstanding research performance, Gülten was awarded the NEU Young Researcher Encouragement Award in both 2021 and 2022.